Wireless replacement LED bulb with one or more accompanying control switches

ABSTRACT

A wireless replacement light bulb with one or more accompanying control switches, such as an integrated switch and/or a wireless lamp switch is provided. The bulb comprises a light source, such as an LED element, a controller, a wireless interface, and one or more accompanying control switches, such as an integrated switch and/or a wireless lamp switch. The bulb can be controlled, such as turned on or off, by a user using the integrated switch, the wireless lamp switch, or a combination thereof. The integrated switch and the wireless lamp switch does not remove power from the controller, allowing the controller to control the bulb in response to receiving a wireless control signal from a remote electronic device, such as a remote control, a smartphone, a tablet, or the like.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of a co-pending U.S. Non-provisionalpatent application Ser. No. 14/969,208, filed Dec. 15, 2015, the entirecontents of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Technical Field

Aspects of the embodiments relate to wireless bulbs, and morespecifically to a wireless replacement LED bulb with one or moreaccompanying control switches, such as an integrated switch and/or awireless lamp switch.

Background Art

Light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs have become popular due to theirlifespan and electrical efficiency, which considerably exceeds that ofincandescent and fluorescent bulbs. While the upfront cost of LED bulbsis usually higher, they are cheaper to operate over the lifespan of thebulb, and their cost continues to drop. The LED bulbs on the markettoday are designed to be shaped similar to typical incandescent bulbs inorder to fit in existing light fixtures and to appear familiar toconsumers. However, LED bulbs can be easily adapted into any desiredshape.

The semiconductor nature of the LED bulbs makes them inherentlycontrollable. Today, LED bulbs are sold with built-in controllabilityenabling many “smart” applications. Replacement LED bulbs with wirelesstechnology have become common in the marketplace. These bulbs generallycomprise an LED light source, a remote control, and a Wi-Fi controller.The bulbs can be dimmed and turned on and off wirelessly using theremote control or via a smartphone or tablet through the Wi-Ficontroller.

However, there is a fundamental flaw in currently available wirelesslycontrollable LED bulbs. If power to the LED bulb is removed, it cannotbe turned on remotely using a wireless signal. This is particularlyproblematic with table lamps and floor lamps, where wireless control canbe quite convenient, but users are also accustomed to turning the lampon and off using a switch on the lamp itself. When the lamp switch isturned off by the user, the power is cut off to the LED bulb and theuser can no longer control the LED bulb remotely. This situation leadsto frustration and confusion.

Accordingly, a need has arisen for a wireless replacement LED bulb withone or more accompanying control switches, such as an integrated switchand/or a wireless lamp switch.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the embodiments to substantially solve at least theproblems and/or disadvantages discussed above, and to provide at leastone or more of the advantages described below.

It is therefore a general aspect of the embodiments to provide systems,methods, and modes for a wireless replacement LED bulb with one or moreaccompanying control switches.

It is also an aspect of the embodiments to provide systems, methods, andmodes for a wireless replacement LED bulb with an integrated switch.

It is also an aspect of the embodiments to provide systems, methods, andmodes for a wireless replacement LED bulb with an accompanying wirelesslamp switch.

It is further an aspect of the embodiments to provide systems, methods,and modes for a mechanical means that deters the user from using thelamp switch during regular operation of the lamp.

It is further an aspect of the embodiments to provide systems, methods,and modes for a wireless replacement LED bulb with a light indicatingfunction for indicating to the user that power has been removed to theLED bulb.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Further features and advantages of the aspects of the embodiments, aswell as the structure and operation of the various embodiments, aredescribed in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.It is noted that the aspects of the embodiments are not limited to thespecific embodiments described herein. Such embodiments are presentedherein for illustrative purposes only. Additional embodiments will beapparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on theteachings contained herein.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

According to some aspects of the embodiments, a system is provided forwirelessly controlling a bulb. The system comprises a bulb and awireless lamp switch adapted to connect to a rotary lamp switch of alamp on which the bulb is installed. The bulb comprises a light source,a first wireless interface adapted to receive wireless control signals,and a controller electrically connected to the light source and thefirst wireless interface. The wireless lamp switch comprises a firstportion, a second portion, a sensor, and a second wireless interface.The first portion of the wireless lamp switch is adapted to connect tothe rotary lamp switch of the lamp. The second portion of the wirelesslamp switch is connected to the first portion and adapted to rotate withrespect to first portion and the rotary lamp switch upon rotation. Thesensor of the wireless lamp switch is adapted to sense a rotationalposition of the second portion with respect to the first portion. Thesecond wireless interface of the wireless lamp switch is adapted totransmit a wireless control signal to the first wireless interface ofthe controller of the bulb upon the sensor sensing a change in therotational position of the second portion with respect to the firstportion. The controller of the bulb is adapted to control an operationof the light source in response to receiving the wireless control signalfrom the wireless lamp switch.

According to some aspects of the embodiments, the wireless lamp switchcan further comprise a power source. The wireless lamp switch cancomprise one or more of an on and off switch, a high-medium-low switch,and a dimming switch. The light source of the bulb can comprise at leastone LED element.

According to some aspects of the embodiments, the second portion isrotatably connected to the first portion, the first portion is adaptedto be rotated by a user to actuate the rotary lamp switch, and thesecond portion is adapted to be rotated by the user to control theoperation of the light source via the second wireless interface. Thefirst portion can comprise an actuator knob connected to a longitudinalactuator portion, which is adapted to connect to the rotary lamp switch.The second portion can comprise a longitudinal rotating shaft having abore sized to rotationally receive the longitudinal actuator portiontherein.

According to some aspects of the embodiments, the second portion of thewireless lamp switch comprises a first position and a second position.At the first position, the second portion is adapted to rotate withrespect to the first portion and the rotary lamp switch. The sensor isadapted to sense the rotational position of the second portion withrespect to the first portion when the second portion is rotated whilebeing in the first position. At the second position, the second portionis adapted to engage the first portion to actuate the rotary lampswitch. The second portion is adapted to be rotated by a user whilebeing at the first position to control the operation of the light sourcevia the second wireless interface, and the second portion is adapted tobe rotated by the user while being at the second position to actuate therotary lamp switch. The second portion can comprise an actuator knobconnected to an end of the first portion, wherein the first positioncomprises the actuator knob in an unpressed position with respect to thefirst portion, wherein the second position comprises the actuator knobin a pressed position with respect to the first portion. The secondportion can further comprise a first portion of an indexing gear withindexing teeth, and the actuator knob can comprise a second portion ofthe indexing gear with indexing teeth. The second portion of theindexing gear engages the first portion of the indexing gear at thesecond position.

According to some aspects of the embodiments, the bulb can furthercomprise an integrated switch adapted to be actuated by a user. Thecontroller can control an operation of the light source in response toactuation of the integrated switch. The integrated switch can compriseone or more of an on and off switch, a high-medium-low switch, a dimmingswitch, and any combination thereof. The integrated switch can compriseone of a rotary collar switch, a rotary switch, a push button switch, atoggle switch, a rocker switch, a pull chain switch, a slide switch, atactile switch, a paddle switch, and a capacitive sensor switch. Inanother embodiment, the integrated switch can comprise a capacitivesensor switch that energizes an electrically conductive surface on thebulb and detects the user touching the electrically conductive surface.In another embodiment, the bulb can further comprise a bulb shell thatcovers the light source, the integrated switch can be operably connectedto the bulb shell, and the bulb shell can be adapted to actuate theintegrated switch by being pressed. In another embodiment, the bulbfurther comprises a bulb base and the integrated switch comprises arotary collar surrounding the bulb base adapted to be rotated about thebulb base by the user to control the operation of the light source. Inanother embodiment, the light source comprises at least one LED element,the bulb comprises an LED driver circuit that includes the controllerand a bulb base that supports the LED driver circuit, and the bulb basecomprises the integrated switch.

According to some aspects of the embodiments, the controller of the bulbis further adapted to control an operation of the light source inresponse to receiving a wireless control signal from a remote electronicdevice. The remote electronic device can comprise one of a remotecontrol, a wireless wall switch, a smartphone, a tablet, a portablecomputer, intermediary network device, a wireless gateway, a router, adedicated touch screen, a central control processor, a wireless hub, andany combination thereof.

According to another aspect of the embodiments, a system of provided forwirelessly controlling a bulb. The system comprises a bulb and awireless lamp switch adapted to connect to a rotary lamp switch of alamp on which the bulb is installed. The bulb comprises a light source,a first wireless interface adapted to receive wireless control signals,and a controller electrically connected to the light source and thefirst wireless interface. The wireless lamp switch comprises alongitudinal portion, an actuator knob, a sensor, and a second wirelessinterface. The longitudinal portion is adapted to connect to the rotarylamp switch of the lamp. The actuator knob is connected to an end of thelongitudinal portion and has an unpressed position and a pressedposition respect to the longitudinal portion. At the unpressed position,the actuator knob is adapted to rotate with respect to the longitudinalportion and the rotary lamp switch. At the pressed position the actuatorknob engages the longitudinal portion to actuate the rotary lamp switch.The sensor of the wireless lamp switch is adapted to sense a rotationalposition of the actuator knob with respect to the longitudinal portionwhen the actuator knob is rotated while being in the unpressed position.The second wireless interface of the wireless lamp switch is adapted totransmit a wireless control signal to the first wireless interface ofthe controller of the bulb upon the sensor sensing a change in therotational position of the actuator knob with respect to thelongitudinal portion. The controller of the bulb is adapted to controlan operation of the light source in response to receiving the wirelesscontrol signal from the wireless lamp switch.

According to another aspect of the embodiments, a method is provided forwirelessly controlling a bulb by a wireless lamp switch adapted toconnect to a rotary lamp switch of the lamp on which the bulb isinstalled. The bulb comprises a light source, a first wirelessinterface, and a controller electrically connected to the light sourceand the first wireless interface. The method comprises the step ofsensing by a sensor of the wireless lamp switch a rotational position ofa second portion of the wireless lamp switch with respect to a firstportion of the wireless lamp switch. The first portion of the wirelesslamp switch is connected to the rotary lamp switch of the lamp, and thesecond portion of the wireless lamp switch is adapted to rotate withrespect to the first portion. The method also comprises the step oftransmitting via a second wireless interface of the wireless lamp switcha wireless control signal to the first wireless interface of thecontroller of the bulb upon the sensor sensing a change in therotational position of the second portion with respect to the firstportion. The method further comprises the step of controlling by thecontroller of the bulb an operation of the light source in response toreceiving the wireless control signal from the wireless lamp switch. Themethod can further comprise the step of pairing the wireless lamp switchwith the bulb. The method can further comprise the step of rotating thefirst portion to actuate the rotary lamp switch of the bulb. The methodcan further comprise the steps of (i) pressing the second portion withrespect to the first portion; and (ii) while at the pressed position,rotating the second portion to engage the first portion to actuate therotary lamp switch.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above and other objects and features of the embodiments will becomeapparent and more readily appreciated from the following description ofthe embodiments with reference to the following figures. Differentaspects of the embodiments are illustrated in reference figures of thedrawings. It is intended that the embodiments and figures disclosedherein are to be considered to be illustrative rather than limiting. Thecomponents in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, emphasisinstead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of theaspects of the embodiments. In the drawings, like reference numeralsdesignate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of a wireless replacement LED bulb withan integrated switch according to one embodiment;

FIG. 1B illustrates an exploded perspective view of the LED bulb with anintegrated switch according to one embodiment;

FIGS. 2A-2D illustrate front view of wireless replacement LED bulbs withintegrated switches according to various embodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of a wireless replacement LED bulbwith an integrated switch according to one embodiment;

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of a wireless replacement LED bulb witha light indicator according to one embodiment;

FIG. 5 illustrates a replacement inline switch with a cover according toone embodiment;

FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective view of a replacement actuator for alamp socket switch according to one embodiment;

FIG. 6B illustrates a cross sectional view of the replacement actuatorof FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of a replacement actuator for alamp socket switch according to another embodiment;

FIG. 7B illustrates a cross sectional view of the replacement actuatorof FIG. 7A in a first position;

FIG. 7C illustrates a cross sectional view of the replacement actuatorof FIG. 7A in a second position

FIG. 7D illustrates a partially cross sectional view of a portion of thereplacement actuator of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of an LED bulb with anaccompanying wireless lamp switch according to another embodiment;

FIG. 8B illustrates a cross sectional view of the wireless lamp switchof FIG. 8A in a first position;

FIG. 8C illustrates a cross sectional view of the wireless lamp switchof FIG. 8A in a second position; and

FIG. 8D illustrates a partially cross sectional view of a portion of thewireless lamp switch of FIG. 8A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments are described more fully hereinafter with reference tothe accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the inventive conceptare shown. In the drawings, the size and relative sizes of layers andregions may be exaggerated for clarity. Like numbers refer to likeelements throughout. The embodiments may, however, be embodied in manydifferent forms and should not be construed as limited to theembodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided sothat this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fullyconvey the scope of the inventive concept to those skilled in the art.The scope of the embodiments is therefore defined by the appendedclaims. The detailed description that follows is written from the pointof view of a control systems company, so it is to be understood thatgenerally the concepts discussed herein are applicable to varioussubsystems and not limited to only a particular controlled device orclass of devices, such as lighting devices.

Reference throughout the specification to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included inat least one embodiment of the embodiments. Thus, the appearance of thephrases “in one embodiment” on “in an embodiment” in various placesthroughout the specification is not necessarily referring to the sameembodiment. Further, the particular feature, structures, orcharacteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or moreembodiments.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS FOR THE ELEMENTS IN THE DRAWINGS IN NUMERICALORDER

The following is a list of the major elements in the drawings innumerical order.

-   -   100 LED Bulb    -   102 Bulb Shell    -   104 Heat Sink    -   106 Bulb Base    -   108 Screw-in Base    -   110 LED Driver Circuit    -   112 LED Module    -   114 Threads    -   115 LED Elements    -   116 Fins    -   118 Smartphone    -   120 Rotary Collar Integrated Switch    -   121 Grooves    -   150 Lamp Socket    -   151 Rotary Socket Switch    -   152 Rotary Knob    -   200 a-d LED Bulbs    -   201 Rotary Switch    -   202 Push Button/Capacitive Switch    -   203 Bulb Shell Switch    -   204 Capacitive Sensor Switch    -   206 Bulb Base    -   300 LED Bulb    -   301 LED Element    -   302 Controller    -   304 Wireless Interface    -   306 Switch    -   308 AC Power Supply    -   310 LED Driver Circuit    -   312 Power Converter    -   314 Input    -   316 Output    -   400 LED Bulb    -   402 Integrated Switch    -   404 Light Indicator    -   406 Battery    -   408 Bulb Base    -   410 LED Driver Circuit    -   412 LED Module    -   500 Inline Switch    -   501 Cover    -   502 Lamp Switch    -   601 Replacement Rotary Actuator    -   602 Longitudinal Actuator Portion    -   603 Actuator Knob    -   605 Threaded End    -   607 Projections    -   608 Channels    -   611 Longitudinal Rotating Shaft    -   612 Rotating Cap    -   613 First End    -   614 Second End    -   615 Bore    -   616 Threaded Bore    -   617 Recess    -   701 Replacement Actuator    -   702 Longitudinal Portion    -   703 Actuator Knob    -   704 First End    -   705 Second End    -   706 Bore    -   711 Circumferential Channel    -   712 Circumferential Projection    -   713 Biasing Spring    -   714 Knob Portion    -   715 Shaft Portion    -   716 Threaded Bore    -   717 Flange    -   718 Bore    -   719 Inner Lip    -   721 First Portion of an Indexing Gear with Indexing Teeth    -   722 Second Portion of an Indexing Gear with Indexing Teeth    -   801 Wireless Lamp Switch    -   802 Longitudinal Portion    -   803 Actuator Knob    -   804 First End    -   805 Second End    -   806 Bore    -   811 Circumferential Channel    -   812 Circumferential Projection    -   813 Biasing Spring    -   814 Knob Portion    -   815 Shaft Portion    -   816 Threaded Bore    -   817 Flange    -   818 Bore    -   819 Inner Lip    -   821 First Portion of an Indexing Gear with Indexing Teeth    -   822 Second Portion of an Indexing Gear with Indexing Teeth    -   830 Control Circuit    -   832 Recess    -   833 Battery    -   835 Sensor/Potentiometer    -   841 Detents    -   842 Detents

LIST OF ACRONYMS USED IN THE SPECIFICATION IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER

The following is a list of the acronyms used in the specification inalphabetical order.

AC Alternating Current

ASIC Application Specific Integrated Circuit

DC Direct Current

Hz Hertz

IR Infrared

LED Light-Emitting Diode

RAM Random-Access Memory

RF Radio Frequency

ROM Read-Only Memory

V Volt

MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

For 40 years Crestron Electronics Inc. has been the world's leadingmanufacturer of advanced control and automation systems, innovatingtechnology to simplify and enhance modern lifestyles and businesses.Crestron designs, manufactures, and offers for sale integrated solutionsto control audio, video, computer, and environmental systems. Inaddition, the devices and systems offered by Crestron streamlinestechnology, improving the quality of life in commercial buildings,universities, hotels, hospitals, and homes, among other locations.Accordingly, the systems, methods, and modes of the aspects of theembodiments described herein, as embodied as 100, 200 a-d, 300, 400,500, 601, 701, and 801 can be manufactured by Crestron Electronics,Inc., located in Rockleigh, N.J.

The different aspects of the embodiments described herein pertain to thecontext of a wireless replacement LED bulb with one or more accompanyingcontrol switches, such as an integrated switch and/or a wireless lampswitch, but is not limited thereto, except as may be set forth expresslyin the appended claims. While a bulb with an LED light source technologyis described herein, the embodiments described herein may be used inwireless bulbs with other types of light source technologies currentlyknown or later developed.

According to one aspect of the embodiments, disclosed herein aresystems, methods, and modes for a wireless replacement LED bulb with aswitch integrated into the base of the bulb. Referring to FIGS. 1A and1B, FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of a wireless replacement LED bulb100 with an integrated switch and FIG. 1B illustrates an explodedperspective view of the LED bulb 100. LED bulb 100 comprises a bulbshell 102, a heat sink 104, a bulb base 106, and a screw-in base 108. Inaddition, an LED module 112 and an LED driver circuit 110 are disposedwithin the LED bulb 100.

LED module 112 comprises one or more LED elements or light sources 115disposed on a printed circuit board. LED elements 115 are powered by theLED driver circuit 110 to emit light. The bulb shell 102 is used toprotect the LED module 112 and also to diffuse the light emitted fromthe LED module 112. In various embodiments, the bulb shell 102 cancomprise various shapes known in the art, including partially spherical,bulged, tubular, reflector, candle, or other bulb shapes known to thoseskilled in the art. The bulb shell 102 can be clear or opaque, and cancomprises plastic, glass, fiber glass, or other materials known to thoseskilled in the art.

The LED driver circuit 110 controls the operation of the LED module 112,as described in greater detail below. It converts an alternating current(AC) to a direct current (DC) and regulates the power supplied to theLED module 112 to control the LED module 112. It can control theoperation of the LED module 112 in a variety of ways, including, but notlimited to, turning the LED module 112 on and off, dimming, incrementaldimming, such as a high-medium-low operation, light sensing, andadjusting the color of the bulb's light output.

Additionally, the LED driver circuit 110 comprises a wireless interface(304 in FIG. 3) for receiving wireless control signals that direct thedesired operation of the LED bulb 100. The control signals can originatefrom and be transmitted via a variety of means. In one embodiment,control signals can originate and be directly transmitted from aportable remote control or a wireless wall switch to the LED drivercircuit 110 via short range communication. In other embodiments, thecontrol signals can originate from a remote electronic device, such as asmartphone 118, a tablet, or a portable computer, or other portableelectronic devices, and be transmitted to the LED driver circuit 110directly or through intermediary network devices, such as a wirelessgateway, a router, or other similar networking devices. In anotherembodiment, one or more LED bulbs 100 can be integrated with a homeautomation system and can receive control signals from a central controlprocessor, a wireless hub, or a similar device. The home automationsystem in turn can receive operating instructions from a user via avariety of means, including wired or wireless wall switches, dedicatedtouch screens, portable electronic devices, as described above, or othermeans known in the art. In yet another embodiment, control signals aretransmitted to the LED driver circuit 110 from an accompanying wirelesslamp switch as will be later described in more detail. In variousembodiments, LED driver circuit 110 receives wireless control signalsvia radio frequency (RF), infrared (IR), or other communicationtechnologies known to those skilled in the art.

The heat sink 104 encloses the LED driver circuit 110 to dissipate heataway from and cool the LED driver circuit 110. This improves theefficiency and prolongs the life of the internal electronics of the LEDbulb 100. Heat sink 104 can comprise a plurality of fins 116 to maximizeits surface area and effectively dissipate heat. In various embodiments,the heat sink 104 comprises aluminum, aluminum alloy, copper, magnesium,manganese, silicon, tin, zinc, composite materials, any combinationsthereof, or other materials known to those skilled in the art.

The LED driver circuit 110 is mounted on bulb base 106, which connectsthe LED driver circuit to an electrical contact base, such as a screw-inbase 108. Screw-in base 108 can be sized to fit a standard lamp socket150. Base 108 can comprise a medium E-26 base with threads 114 that fita medium base socket 150. However, base 108 can comprise other sizes andtypes to fit various sockets and fixtures, including, but not limited toa mogul E-39 base, an intermediate E-17 base, a candelabra E-12 base, abayonet base, or a pin base, among others. Screw-in base 108 compriseselectrically conductive material and is screwed into socket 150 toconnect bulb 100 to an AC power supply.

The LED bulb 100 further comprises an integrated switch 120 that can bemounted on the bulb base 106. According to one embodiment, switch 120comprises a rotary collar surrounding the base 106 of the LED bulb 100.The switch 120 may be rotated about the base 106 to control theoperation of the LED bulb 100. For example, it can be rotated to turnthe LED bulb 100 on or off. In another embodiment, rotary switch 120 cancomprise an incremental control function with a high-medium-low lightsetting. In a further embodiment, rotary switch 120 may be a continuousdimming switch. Switch 120 can comprise grooves 121 disposed on itssurface to assist a user to grip the switch 120.

Rather than using the lamp's power switch, such as rotary socket switch151, a user would use the integrated switch 120 on the bulb 100. Theintegrated switch 120 is connected to the LED driver circuit 110, asdescribed in greater detail below, directing the LED driver circuit 110to control the light of the LED module 112, such as turning it on oroff. As such, the AC power supplied to the LED bulb 100, andspecifically to the LED driver circuit 110, does not get removed evenwhen the integrated switch 120 is in an off position. Accordingly, eventhough the LED module 112 may be turned off using the switch 120, theLED bulb 100 may still be controlled remotely using a remote electronicdevice, such as a remote control or a smartphone 118, or any other meansas described above. Upon receiving a wireless control signal from asmartphone 118, the LED driver circuit 110 can forgo the integral switch120 and control the LED module 112, such as by turning it on.

The local LED bulb switch can take various forms and designs. Someexamples are shown in FIGS. 2A-2D. Referring to FIG. 2A, the LED bulb200 a can comprise a rotary lamp switch 201. In another embodiment,shown in FIG. 2B, the LED bulb 200 b can comprise a push button switch202. Alternatively, switch 202 can comprise a capacitive switch. In yetanother embodiment, shown in FIG. 2C, the bulb shell 203 of the LED bulb200 c can be used to actuate an internal switch connected to the LEDdriver circuit 110. As such, the user may press the blub shell 203 toturn the LED bulb 200 c on or off. In various other embodiments, theintegrated switch can comprise a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a pullchain switch, a slide switch, a tactile switch, a paddle switch, orother types of switches known to those skilled in the art.

In yet another embodiment, shown in FIG. 2D, the LED bulb 200 d cancomprise a capacitive sensor switch 204. In one embodiment, the LEDdriver circuit 110 comprises an RC oscillator that energizes anelectrically conductive surface 204 of a dedicated touch area on the LEDbulb 200 d. The electrically conductive surface 204 can be located invarious locations about the LED bulb 200 d. In one embodiment, theelectrically conductive surface 204 is located about at least a portionof the bulb base 206. The RC oscillator turns the conductive surface 204of the LED bulb 200 d into a capacitor. When a person touches theelectrically conductive surface 204 of the LED bulb 200 d, thecapacitance of the electrically conductive surface 204 changes, alsochanging the frequency of the oscillator. When a large enough differencein frequency is detected by the LED driver circuit 110, the LED drivercircuit 110 registers it as a touch and directs the LED module 112 toturn on or off. The capacitive sensor switch 204 has the advantage ofbeing spread about a substantial surface of the LED bulb 200 d such thata user can easily access the LED bulb 200 d and does not need to reachinto an awkward space, or move the lamp to make the switch accessible.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the wireless replacement LED bulb 300 withan integrated switch 306, according to one illustrative embodiment. TheLED bulb 300 comprises an LED driver circuit 310 and an LED element 301.According to one embodiment, the LED driver circuit 310 comprises apower converter 312, a controller 302, a wireless interface 304, and anintegrated switch 306. It is contemplated that the LED driver circuit310 may contain other circuitry, such as display elements, networkdrivers, a bridge rectifier, a dimming circuit, a driver circuit,sensors, and other logic known to those skilled in the art.

The input side 314 of the LED driver circuit 310 is connected to an ACpower supply 308 through an electric socket, such as socket 150. Forexample, the AC power supply 308 may be a 120 Volt (V) 60 Hertz (Hz) ACmains residential power supply. A hot input terminal of the screw-inbase 108 connects to an AC source hot conductor and a neutral inputterminal of the screw-in base 108 connects to an AC source neutralconductor. The output side 316 of the LED driver circuit 310 isconnected to the LED element 301. The LED element 301 is illuminated viathe electric power output from the LED driver circuit 310. Although asingle LED element 301 is illustrated, the LED driver circuit 310 can beconnected to an LED module, such as LED module 112 discussed above,comprising a plurality of LED elements disposed on a printed circuitboard.

The controller 302 controls the operation of the LED element 301.Controller 302 can represent one or more microprocessors, and themicroprocessors can be “general purpose” microprocessors, a combinationof general and special purpose microprocessors, or application specificintegrated circuits (ASICs). Controller 302 can provide processingcapability to provide processing for one or more of the techniques andfunctions described herein. In an embodiment, the LED driver circuit 310further comprises a memory for storing configuration information for theLED driver circuit 310 for use by the controller 302. The memory can becommunicably coupled to controller 302 and can store data and executablecode. The memory can represent volatile memory such as random-accessmemory (RAM), but can also include nonvolatile memory, such as read-onlymemory (ROM) or Flash memory.

The power converter 312 is configured for generating and regulating a DCvoltage for powering the controller 302, the wireless communicationinterface 304, the LED element 301, and other low-voltage circuitry ofthe LED driver circuit 310.

The controller 302 receives wireless control signals via the wirelesscommunication interface 304. For example, the wireless communicationinterface 304 can be an RF receiver configured for receiving controlsignals via a wireless RF signal. In a further embodiment, the wirelesscommunication interface 304 is configured for communicatingbidirectionally. In this embodiment, the wireless communicationinterface 304 may comprise an RF transceiver. In various embodiments,the wireless interface 304 communicates with a remote electronic device,such as a remote control or the smartphone 118, a wireless lamp switch,or other means discussed above, using Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi, ZigBee®,Z-Wave, infiNET EX® from Crestron Electronics, Inc. of Rockleigh, orother communication technologies known to those skilled in the art. Inanother embodiment, the wireless communication interface 304 comprisesan infrared (IR) receiver or transceiver.

The controller 302 further receives control signals from a switch 306,such as integrated switches 120, or 201-204 discussed above. Switch 306is integrated with the LED bulb 300 and can be integral with the LEDdriver circuit 310, or it can be electrically connected to the LEDdriver circuit 310 but placed at a distance from the LED driver circuit310, such as in proximity to the blub shell 203 shown in FIG. 2C. Switch306 can be actuated by the user to locally control the LED element 301,such as by turning it on or off, dimming it, controlling it via ahigh-medium-low setting, or other operations known in the art. Ratherthan using a lamp's power switch, such as lamp socket switch 151, a userwould use the switch 306 on the bulb 300 to control the lamp. Thisswitch 306 provides an input signal to the controller 302, which in turndecides how to control the LED element 301. For example, switch 306 maycomprise a dimming switch that communicates to the controller 302 to dimthe LED element 301.

Notably, AC power 308 is not removed from the LED driver circuit 310,and particularly from the controller 302, during the operation of theintegrated switch 306. Accordingly, at all times, a user can control theLED driver circuit 310 either locally with switch 306, or wirelesslythrough the wireless interface 304 using a remote electronic device,such as a remote control or a smartphone 118, or via other meansdiscussed above. For example, after turning the LED element 301 offusing the switch 306, the LED element 301 may still be turned onremotely using a smartphone 118. Upon receiving a wireless signal fromthe smartphone 118, the LED driver circuit 310 can forgo switch 306 andturn on the LED element 310.

According to another aspect of the present embodiments, the LED bulb maycontain a warning indicating function upon detecting that power has beenremoved from the LED bulb. FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of a wirelessreplacement LED bulb 400 with a light indicator according to oneembodiment. The LED bulb 400 may include a battery 406 provided forpowering the controller therein, such as controller 302 discussed above.When the user accidentally removes power to the lamp, for example viasocket 150 by turning a native lamp switch 151, the controller of theLED driver circuit 410 can detect lack of AC power supply. Upondetecting lack of power supply, the controller can use the powerprovided by battery 406 to transmit a warning control signal configuredfor indicating to the user that AC power has been removed and as areminder to instead use the switch 402 integrated into the LED bulb 400.The indication can be visual or audible. This could be useful in a casewhere the user, accustomed to switching the lamp off in the usualmanner, does so and as such removes the ability to control the lampremotely. In one embodiment, the controller of the LED driver circuit410 can transmit the warning control signal to the LED module 412 of theLED bulb 400. For example, the warning control signal can direct the LEDmodule 412 of the LED bulb 400 to blink a few times, illuminate in a redcolor, or the like.

In another embodiment, upon detecting lack of power supply, thecontroller of the LED driver circuit 410 can use the power provided bybattery 406 to transmit a warning control signal to a remote electronicdevice, such as a smartphone 118, which in turns indicates to the userthat AC power has been removed from the LED bulb 400. For example, theremote electronic device can display a graphical or alphanumeric messageto the user, or it can sound an audible noise through a speaker.

In yet another embodiment, the LED bulb 400 can comprise a separateindicator 404 in electrical communication with the battery 406. Theindicator 404 can be disposed on the bulb base 408 and can provide alight indication, an audible indication, or some other type ofindication to the user. For example, a light indicator 404 can comprisean LED element. In another embodiment, an audible indicator 404 cancomprise a speaker, a buzzer, or the like. When the user accidentallyremoves power to the lamp socket 150 via a lamp switch 151, thecontroller of the LED driver circuit 410 can detect lack of the AC powersupply and using power provided by battery 406 transmit a warningcontrol signal to the indicator 404 directing the indicator 404 tovisually or audibly indicate to the user that the power supply has beenremoved from the bulb. For example, the light indicator 404 can bedirected to blink a few times, illuminate in a red color, or the like.

According to another aspect of the present embodiments, the switch onthe lamp itself, which may be located on the lamp socket, lamp base, orlamp wire, or portion of a switch, such as the switch actuator, may beremoved to avoid confusion with the switch integrated into the LED bulbof the present embodiments. In another embodiment, the switch on thelamp may be made less conspicuous. A replacement switch or portion of aswitch, such as the switch actuator, can be provided to accompany theLED bulb 100 that still allows the user to disconnect the AC power fromthe socket 150 (e.g., when the user wishes to replace the bulb), butwhich comprises a mechanical means that deters the user from using thelamp switch 151 during regular operation. For example, as shown in FIG.5, a replacement inline switch 500 can be provided with a cover 501 thatfirst needs to be removed to actuate the lamp switch 502.

According to another embodiment, FIG. 6A illustrates a perspective viewof a replacement actuator 601 for a lamp socket switch 151 and FIG. 6Billustrates a cross sectional view of the replacement actuator 601.Table or floor lamps on the market today typically contain a socket 150with a rotary switch 151, and a conventional rotary knob 152 (FIG. 1A)threadably connected to the socket switch 151. The conventional rotaryknob 152 can be removed by being unscrewed and replaced with the rotaryactuator 601 of the present embodiment. Rotary actuator 601 comprises alongitudinal actuator portion 602, and one or more rotating portions,such as a longitudinal rotating shaft 611 and a rotating cap 612.Longitudinal actuator portion 602, rotating shaft 611 and rotating cap612 can be tubular in shape. Longitudinal actuator portion 602 extendsfrom a first end 613 to a second end 614. The first end 613 comprises athreaded bore 616 partially extending therethrough, which threads ontothe threaded end 605 of the socket switch 151. The second end 614 of theactuator portion 602 comprises an actuator knob 603.

Longitudinal rotating shaft 611 comprises a bore 615 longitudinallyextending therethrough and sized to rotationally receive thelongitudinal actuator portion 602. Longitudinal actuator portion 602comprises one or more channels 608 extending circumferential about itsouter surface. Channels 608 are configured for receiving projections607, which extend circumferentially from the inner surface of the bore615 in the longitudinal shaft 611. The actuator knob 603 may be providedwith a recess 617 on the second end 614 of the actuator portion 602 forreceiving a projection 618 extending out of rotating cap 612.Longitudinal shaft 611 may freely rotate with respect to the actuatorportion 602 via projections 607 and channels 608 such that when shaft611 is rotated by a user it does not actuate the switch 151. Similarly,rotating cap 612 freely rotates with respect to the actuator portion602. Actuator knob 603 can be rotated by the user to rotate the actuatorportion 602 embedded within the longitudinal shaft 611, which in turnrotates and actuates the socket switch 151.

According to an embodiment, the actuator knob 603, the rotating shaft611, and the rotating cap 612 comprise substantially the same diameter.The actuator knob 603 is disposed between the rotating shaft 611 and therotating cap 612. Accordingly, it is not convenient for the user to usethe replacement actuator 601 for actuating the lamp socket switch 151,yet it is still possible if power needs to be removed for safety reasons(e.g. replacing the bulb). Rotating shaft 611 and rotating cap 612provide mechanical means that prevent intuitive actuation of the socketswitch 151, thereby deterring the user from using the switch 151 onsocket 150. Instead, the user is motivated to use the integrated switchon the LED bulb.

FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate another embodiment of a replacement actuator 701for a rotary switch 151 of a lamp socket 150. FIG. 7A illustrates aperspective view of a replacement actuator 701, FIG. 7B illustrates across sectional view of the replacement actuator 701 in a firstposition, FIG. 7C illustrates a cross sectional view of the replacementactuator 701 in a second position, and FIG. 7D illustrates a partiallycross sectional view of a portion of the replacement actuator 701. Inthis embodiment, the mechanical means for deterring the user from usingthe lamp switch 151 during regular operation comprises an actuator 701that replaces the conventional rotary knob 152 of the socket switch 151.The replacement actuator 701 needs to be first pressed in to actuatesocket switch 151 to disconnect the AC power to the socket 150.

Replacement actuator 701 comprises a longitudinal portion 702 that mateswith an actuator knob 703. The longitudinal portion 702 extends from afirst end 704 to a second end 705. The first end 704 comprises athreaded bore 716 partially extending therethrough, which threads ontothe threaded end 605 of the socket switch 151. The second end 705 of thelongitudinal portion 702 comprises a flange 717 and a partiallyextending bore 706 extending therethrough. Bore 706 receives theactuator knob 703. The bore 706 comprises a circumferential channel 711having a width extending from flange 717 to an inner lip 719. Bore 706further comprises a first portion of an indexing gear with indexingteeth 721. The actuator knob 703 comprises a knob portion 714, a shaftportion 715, and a circumferential projection 712 extending from theouter surface of the shaft portion 715. Actuator knob 703 furthercomprises a second portion of an indexing gear with indexing teeth 722.A bore 718 partially extends through actuator knob 703.

The shaft portion 715 of the actuator knob 703 is received within thebore 706 of the second end 705 of the longitudinal portion 702. Thecircumferential projection 712 of the actuator knob 703 is receivedwithin the circumferential channel 711 between flange 717 and lip 719inside the bore 706. The actuator knob 703 can longitudinally travelwith respect to the circumferential channel 711 from a first positionwhere the circumferential projection 712 abuts the flange 717 (FIG. 7B),to a second position where the circumferential projection 712 abuts thelip 719 inside the bore 706 (FIG. 7C). A biasing spring 713 is placedinside bore 718 of the actuator knob 703 and bore 706 of thelongitudinal portion 702 for biasing actuator knob 703 to stay at thefirst position (FIG. 7B).

When the actuator knob 703 is in an unpressed or first position (FIG.7B), the indexing teeth 721 and 722 of the indexing gear are notengaged, allowing the actuator knob 703 to freely rotate with respect tothe longitudinal portion 702. As such, the socket switch 151 is notengaged when the user rotates the actuator knob 703. In order to actuatethe socket switch 151, the user needs to first press the actuator knob703, causing the circumferential projection 712 to travel withincircumferential channel 711 until the circumferential projection 712abuts the lip 719 inside the bore 706 at the second position (FIG. 7C).At that pressed or second position, the indexing teeth 722 of theactuator knob 703 engage the indexing teeth 721 in the longitudinalportion 702. When the user rotates the actuator knob 703 while it ispressed, the indexing gear causes the longitudinal portion 702 to alsorotate, which in turn actuates the socket switch 151. Accordingly, thereplacement actuator 701 provides a mechanical means that prevents anintuitive actuation of the socket switch 151, thereby deterring the userfrom using the switch 151 on socket 150. Instead, the user is motivatedto use the integrated switch on the LED bulb.

In another embodiment a replacement actuator can be provided that firstneeds to be pulled out in order to actuate the socket switch 151.

According to another aspect of the present embodiments, a wireless lampswitch, such as wireless lamp switch 801 shown in FIG. 8A, may beprovided to accompany the LED bulb 100 for wirelessly controlling theLED bulb 100. The wireless lamp switch is configured for being installedon the same lamp as the LED bulb 100. The wireless lamp switch may beconfigured to be installed on the lamp socket, lamp base, or lamp wire.The wireless lamp switch may be configured to replace the lamp'sexisting switch entirely, or only a portion of the lamp's existingswitch, such as a conventional rotary knob 152 (FIG. 1A). According toone embodiment, the LED bulb 100 may comprise the integrated switch 120and can be wirelessly controlled by either the actuation of theintegrated switch 120, actuation of the wireless lamp switch, or via aremote electronic device, such as a smartphone 118. In anotherembodiment, the LED bulb 100 does not comprise an integrated switch 120and can be wirelessly controlled by one or more of actuation of thewireless lamp switch and via a remote electronic device 118.

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate one embodiment of the wireless lamp switch 801.FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of an LED bulb 100 with anaccompanying wireless lamp switch 801, FIG. 8B illustrates a crosssectional view of the wireless lamp switch 801 in a first position, FIG.8C illustrates a cross sectional view of the wireless lamp switch 801 ina second position, and FIG. 8D illustrates a partially cross sectionalview of a portion of the wireless lamp switch 801.

Referring to FIG. 8A, a wireless lamp switch 801 is illustrated in theform of a replacement actuator that replaces the conventional rotaryknob 152 (FIG. 1A) of the switch 151 provided on a conventional socket150. The LED bulb 100 and the wireless lamp switch 801 can be providedas a set and installed on socket 150 of a single lamp. The wireless lampswitch 801 comprises a longitudinal portion 802 that mates with anactuator knob 803. The wireless lamp switch 801 can provide twofunctions. In its normal state, or a first position (FIG. 8B), theactuator knob 803 is in an unpressed state and can be rotated by theuser to control the LED bulb 100. Specifically, the wireless lamp switch801 is wirelessly paired with the LED bulb 100 and wirelesslycommunicates with the LED bulb 100 to control the LED bulb 100. In theunpressed state, rotation of the actuator knob 803 does not actuate thesocket switch 151 and thereby does not cut off AC power to the socket150. In order to disconnect AC power to the socket 150 (for example,when the user wishes to replace the bulb) the user can first press theactuator knob 803 to engage the longitudinal portion 802, and turn theactuator knob 803 to actuate socket switch 151.

Referring to FIG. 8B, wireless lamp switch 801 comprises a similarconstruction to the replacement actuator 701 discussed above. Wirelesslamp switch 801 comprises a longitudinal portion 802 that mates with anactuator knob 803. The longitudinal portion 802 extends from a first end804 to a second end 805. The first end 804 comprises a threaded bore 816partially extending therethrough, which threads onto the threaded end605 of the socket switch 151.

The second end 805 of the longitudinal portion 803 comprises a flange817 and a partially extending bore 806 that receives the actuator knob803. The bore 806 comprises a circumferential channel 811 with a widththat extends from flange 817 to an inner lip 819. Flange 817 maycomprise detents 841 extending therefrom. Bore 806 further comprises afirst portion of an indexing gear with indexing teeth 821 (such as teeth721 shown in FIG. 7D). The actuator knob 803 comprises a knob portion814, a shaft portion 815, and a circumferential projection 812 extendingfrom the outer surface of the shaft portion 815. Actuator knob 803 issubstantially similar to the actuator knob 703 shown in FIG. 7D.Actuator knob 803 may comprise detents 842 extending from thecircumferential projection 812 that contact detents 841 when theactuator knot 803 is in the unpressed position (i.e., first positionshown in FIG. 8B). Actuator knob 803 further comprises a second portionof an indexing gear with indexing teeth 822 (such as teeth 722 shown inFIG. 7D). A bore 818 partially extends through actuator knob 803.

The shaft portion 815 of the actuator knob 803 is received within thebore 806 of the second end 805 of the longitudinal portion 802. Thecircumferential projection 812 of the actuator knob 803 is receivedwithin the circumferential channel 811 between flange 817 and lip 819inside the bore 806. The actuator knob 803 can longitudinally travelwith respect to the circumferential channel 811 from a first positionwhere the circumferential projection 812 abuts the flange 817 (FIG. 8B),to a second position where the circumferential projection 812 abuts thelip 819 inside the bore 806 (FIG. 8C). A biasing spring 813 is placedinside bore 818 of the actuator knob 803 and bore 806 of thelongitudinal portion 802 for biasing actuator knob 803 to stay at anunpressed position (i.e., the first position shown in FIG. 8B).

Furthermore, longitudinal portion 802 comprises a control circuit 830disposed therein for wirelessly communicating with the LED drivercircuit 110 of the LED bulb 100. Longitudinal portion 802 furthercomprises a recess 832 sized to receive a battery 833. Battery 833 is inelectrical communication with control circuit 830 for powering thecontrol circuit 830. The flange 817 further comprises a sensor 835 thatdetects the rotational position of the circumferential projection 812 ofthe actuator knob 803 with respect to the sensor 835. Sensor 835 is inan electrical communication with the control circuit 830 and provides aninput to the control circuit 830 indicating the position of the actuatorknob 803. The control circuit 830 transmits the output of the sensor 835to the LED driver circuit 110, which controls the LED bulb 100.

In another embodiment, instead of using the battery 833, thelongitudinal portion 802 may comprise a generator configured forharvesting enough energy from the mechanical motion of rotating theactuator knob 803 with respect to the longitudinal portion 802 to send ashort RF signal to the LED driver circuit 110 of the LED bulb 100. TheLED bulb 100 would respond by toggling on or off.

When the actuator knob 803 is in an unpressed or first position (FIG.8B), which is its normal state, the indexing teeth 821 and 822 of theindexing gear are not engaged. As such, the actuator knob 803 can rotatewith respect to the longitudinal portion 802 such that the socket switch151 is not engaged when the user rotates the actuator knob 803. Thecircumferential projection 812 of the actuator knob 803 abuts the flange817 and thereby engages the sensor 835. As such, rotation of theactuator knob 803 while it is in the unpressed or first positionactivates the sensor 835 to detect the rotational position of thecircumferential projection 812. Detents 841 of the flange 817 contactdetents 842 of the circumferential projection 812 and provide for someresistance in turning the actuator knob 803. Other means known in theart can also be provided to provide such resistance to the user whenturning the actuator knob 803.

According to one embodiment, the wireless lamp switch 801 comprises anon and off setting detected by sensor 835 directing the LED drivercircuit 110 to turn the LED bulb 100 on or off. In another embodiment,the wireless lamp switch 801 comprises a high-medium-low settingdetected by sensor 835 configured for directing the LED driver circuit110 to control the LED bulb 100 according to a high-medium-low lightintensity.

In a further embodiment, the wireless lamp switch 801 comprises adimmer. Sensor 835 can indicate the rotational position of thecircumferential projection 812 with respect to the potentiometer 835.The rotational position information is received by the control circuit830 from the sensor 835 and transmitted to the LED driver circuit 110 asa control signal. The control signal is used to indicate the desiredintensity of the light output. In one embodiment, sensor 835 cancomprise a potentiometer where rotational position of thecircumferential projection 812 with respect to the potentiometer 835 atthe flange 817 changes the resistance of the potentiometer, as is wellknown in the art. The potentiometer detects the change in resistance andtransmits the change in resistance to the control circuit 830. Thecontrol circuit 830 transmits the detected resistance of thepotentiometer 835 as a control signal to the LED driver circuit 110. Inanother embodiment, sensor 835 can comprise a rotary encoder thatconverts the angular position or motion of the circumferentialprojection 812 to an analog or digital code. The output code providesinformation about the position of the circumferential projection 812,which is transmitted by the control circuit 830 as a control signal tothe LED driver circuit 110.

The control circuit 830 comprises a wireless interface, such as wirelessinterface 304, for transmitting the control signal to the LED drivercircuit 110. Wireless interface of control circuit 830 can be an RF oran IR transmitter or transceiver configured for transmitting controlsignals via a wireless RF or IR signal via at least one short rangecommunication protocol discussed above. The wireless lamp switch 801 canbe paired via its wireless interface with one or more LED bulbs 100 asis well known in the art so that only the LED bulb 100 and the wirelesslamp switch 801 installed on the same lamp will communicate. The LEDbulb 100 and the wireless lamp switch 801 may be paired by, for example,pressing and holding a button on the LED bulb 100 while turning theactuator knob 803. In another embodiment, the LED bulb 100 and thewireless lamp switch 801 may be paired by actuating the integratedswitch 120 on the LED bulb 100 while turning the actuator knob 803.

The user can also use the wireless lamp switch 801 of the presentembodiments to actuate the socket switch 151 to cut off power to thesocket 151. To actuate socket switch 151, the user needs to first pressthe actuator knob 803, causing the circumferential projection 812 totravel within circumferential channel 811 until the circumferentialprojection 812 abuts the lip 819 inside the bore 806 at the secondposition (FIG. 8C). At that pressed or second position, the indexingteeth 822 of the actuator knob 803 engage the indexing teeth 821 in thelongitudinal portion 802. When the user rotates the actuator knob 803while it is pressed, the indexing gear causes the longitudinal portion802 to also rotate, which in turn actuates the socket switch 151.

According to another embodiment, rotary actuator 601, shown in FIGS.6A-6B, can be configured to comprise a wireless lamp switch similar towireless control switch 801. The longitudinal actuator portion 602 ofthe rotary actuator 601 may comprise a control circuit, such as controlcircuit 830, configured for wirelessly communicating with the LED drivercircuit 110 of the LED bulb 100. The longitudinal actuator portion 602may comprise a sensor, such as sensor 835, which senses the rotationalposition of the rotating shaft 611 or rotating cap 612. Rotation ofrotating shaft 611 or rotating cap 612 with respect to the longitudinalactuator portion 602 will trigger the sensor causing wireless controlsignals to be transmitted to the LED bulb 100 to control the LED bulb100, such as by turning it on or off, or controlling its intensity byeither a high-medium-low setting or by dimming it.

Industrial Applicability

To solve the aforementioned problems, the aspects of the embodiments aredirected towards a wireless replacement LED bulb with one or moreaccompanying control switches, such as an integrated switch and/or awireless lamp switch.

The disclosed embodiments provide a system, software, and a method for awireless replacement LED bulb with one or more accompanying controlswitches, such as an integrated switch and/or a wireless lamp switch. Itshould be understood that this description is not intended to limit theembodiments. On the contrary, the embodiments are intended to coveralternatives, modifications, and equivalents, which are included in thespirit and scope of the embodiments as defined by the appended claims.Further, in the detailed description of the embodiments, numerousspecific details are set forth to provide a comprehensive understandingof the claimed embodiments. However, one skilled in the art wouldunderstand that various embodiments may be practiced without suchspecific details.

Although the features and elements of aspects of the embodiments aredescribed being in particular combinations, each feature or element canbe used alone, without the other features and elements of theembodiments, or in various combinations with or without other featuresand elements disclosed herein.

This written description uses examples of the subject matter disclosedto enable any person skilled in the art to practice the same, includingmaking and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporatedmethods. The patentable scope of the subject matter is defined by theclaims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled inthe art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of theclaims.

The above-described embodiments are intended to be illustrative in allrespects, rather than restrictive, of the embodiments. Thus theembodiments are capable of many variations in detailed implementationthat can be derived from the description contained herein by a personskilled in the art. No element, act, or instruction used in thedescription of the present application should be construed as criticalor essential to the embodiments unless explicitly described as such.Also, as used herein, the article “a” is intended to include one or moreitems.

All United States patents and applications, foreign patents, andpublications discussed above are hereby incorporated herein by referencein their entireties.

Alternate Embodiments

Alternate embodiments may be devised without departing from the spiritor the scope of the different aspects of the embodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for wirelessly controlling a bulbcomprising: a bulb comprising: a light source; a first wirelessinterface adapted to receive wireless control signals; and a controllerelectrically connected to the light source and the first wirelessinterface; a wireless lamp switch adapted to connect to a rotary lampswitch of a lamp on which the bulb is installed, wherein the wirelesslamp switch comprises: a first portion adapted to connect to the rotarylamp switch of the lamp; a second portion connected to the first portionand adapted to rotate with respect to first portion and the rotary lampswitch upon rotation; a sensor adapted to sense a rotational position ofthe second portion with respect to the first portion; and a secondwireless interface adapted to transmit a wireless control signal to thefirst wireless interface of the controller of the bulb upon the sensorsensing a change in the rotational position of the second portion withrespect to the first portion; wherein the controller is adapted tocontrol an operation of the light source in response to receiving thewireless control signal from the wireless lamp switch.
 2. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the wireless lamp switch further comprises a powersource.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the second portion if thewireless lamp switch is rotatably connected to the first portion,wherein the first portion is adapted to be rotated by a user to actuatethe rotary lamp switch, and wherein the second portion is adapted to berotated by the user to control the operation of the light source via thesecond wireless interface.
 4. The system of claim 3, wherein the firstportion of the wireless lamp switch comprises an actuator knob connectedto a longitudinal actuator portion, which is adapted to connect to therotary lamp switch, wherein the second portion comprises a longitudinalrotating shaft having a bore sized to rotationally receive thelongitudinal actuator portion therein.
 5. The system of claim 1, whereinthe second portion of the wireless lamp switch comprises a firstposition and a second position; wherein at the first position the secondportion is adapted to rotate with respect to the first portion and therotary lamp switch; and wherein at the second position the secondportion is adapted to engage the first portion to actuate the rotarylamp switch.
 6. The system of claim 5, wherein the second portion of thewireless lamp switch is adapted to be rotated by a user while being atthe first position to control the operation of the light source via thesecond wireless interface, wherein the second portion is adapted to berotated by the user while being at the second position to actuate therotary lamp switch.
 7. The system of claim 5, wherein the second portionof the wireless lamp switch comprises an actuator knob connected to anend of the first portion, wherein the first position comprises theactuator knob in an unpressed position with respect to the firstportion, wherein the second position comprises the actuator knob in apressed position with respect to the first portion.
 8. The system ofclaim 7, wherein the second portion of the wireless lamp switchcomprises a first portion of an indexing gear with indexing teeth andwherein the actuator knob comprises a second portion of the indexinggear with indexing teeth, wherein the second portion of the indexinggear engages the first portion of the indexing gear at the secondposition.
 9. The system of claim 5, wherein the sensor of the wirelesslamp switch is adapted to sense the rotational position of the secondportion with respect to the first portion when the second portion isrotated while being in the first position.
 10. The system of claim 1,wherein the wireless lamp switch comprises one or more of an on and offswitch, a high-medium-low switch, and a dimming switch.
 11. The systemof claim 1, wherein the light source of the bulb comprises at least oneLED element.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein the bulb furthercomprises an integrated switch adapted to be actuated by a user, whereinthe controller controls an operation of the light source in response toactuation of the integrated switch.
 13. The system of claim 12, thelight source of the bulb comprises at least one LED element, and whereinthe bulb further comprises: an LED driver circuit that includes thecontroller; and a bulb base that supports the LED driver circuit;wherein the bulb base comprises the integrated switch.
 14. The system ofclaim 12, wherein the integrated switch of the bulb comprises acapacitive sensor switch that energizes an electrically conductivesurface on the bulb and detects the user touching the electricallyconductive surface.
 15. The system of claim 12, wherein the integratedswitch of the bulb comprises one of a rotary collar switch, a rotaryswitch, a push button switch, a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a pullchain switch, a slide switch, a tactile switch, a paddle switch, and acapacitive sensor switch.
 16. The system of claim 12, wherein the bulbfurther comprises a bulb shell that covers the light source, wherein theintegrated switch is operably connected to the bulb shell, and whereinthe bulb shell is adapted to actuate the integrated switch by beingpressed.
 17. The system of claim 12, wherein the bulb further comprisesa bulb base, wherein the integrated switch comprises a rotary collarsurrounding the bulb base adapted to be rotated about the bulb base bythe user to control the operation of the light source.
 18. The system ofclaim 12, wherein the integrated switch of the bulb comprises one ormore of an on and off switch, a high-medium-low switch, a dimmingswitch, and any combination thereof.
 19. The system of claim 1, whereinthe controller of the bulb is further adapted to control an operation ofthe light source in response to receiving a wireless control signal froma remote electronic device.
 20. The system of claim 19, wherein theremote electronic device comprises one of a remote control, a wirelesswall switch, a smartphone, a tablet, a portable computer, intermediarynetwork device, a wireless gateway, a router, a dedicated touch screen,a central control processor, a wireless hub, and any combinationthereof.
 21. A system for wirelessly controlling a bulb comprising: abulb comprising: a light source; a first wireless interface adapted toreceive wireless control signals; a controller electrically connected tothe light source and the first wireless interface; a wireless lampswitch adapted to connect to a rotary lamp switch of a lamp on which thebulb is installed, wherein the wireless lamp switch comprises: alongitudinal portion adapted to connect to the rotary lamp switch of thelamp; an actuator knob connected to an end of the longitudinal portionand having: an unpressed position with respect to the longitudinalportion, wherein at the unpressed position the actuator knob is adaptedto rotate with respect to the longitudinal portion and the rotary lampswitch, and a pressed position with respect to the longitudinal portion,wherein at the pressed position the actuator knob engages thelongitudinal portion to actuate the rotary lamp switch; a sensor adaptedto sense a rotational position of the actuator knob with respect to thelongitudinal portion when the actuator knob is rotated while being inthe unpressed position; a second wireless interface adapted to transmita wireless control signal to the first wireless interface of thecontroller of the bulb upon the sensor sensing a change in therotational position of the actuator knob with respect to thelongitudinal portion; wherein the controller is adapted to control anoperation of the light source in response to receiving the wirelesscontrol signal from the wireless lamp switch.
 22. A method forwirelessly controlling a bulb by a wireless lamp switch adapted toconnect to a rotary lamp switch of the lamp on which the bulb isinstalled, wherein the bulb comprises a light source, a first wirelessinterface, and a controller electrically connected to the light sourceand the first wireless interface, the method comprising: sensing by asensor of the wireless lamp switch a rotational position of a secondportion of the wireless lamp switch with respect to a first portion ofthe wireless lamp switch, wherein the first portion of the wireless lampswitch is connected to the rotary lamp switch of the lamp, wherein thesecond portion of the wireless lamp switch is adapted to rotate withrespect to the first portion; transmitting via a second wirelessinterface of the wireless lamp switch a wireless control signal to thefirst wireless interface of the controller of the bulb upon the sensorsensing a change in the rotational position of the second portion withrespect to the first portion; and controlling by the controller of thebulb an operation of the light source in response to receiving thewireless control signal from the wireless lamp switch.
 23. The method ofclaim 22, further comprising the step of: pairing the wireless lampswitch with the bulb.
 24. The method of claim 22, further comprising thestep of: rotating the first portion to actuate the rotary lamp switch ofthe bulb.
 25. The method of claim 22, further comprising the steps of:pressing the second portion with respect to the first portion; and whileat the pressed position, rotating the second portion to engage the firstportion to actuate the rotary lamp switch.